Tales from the 10th: Justice Ginsburg’s Early Equality Case and Chief Justice Roberts on the Court Today

This episode of Tales from the 10th features two memorable fireside conversations from the 10th Circuit Bench and Bar Conference.The first tells of the remarkable story behind a 2010 appearance by Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. After the death of her husband, renowned tax lawyer Martin Ginsburg, Justice Ginsburg traveled to Denver to deliver a speech he had prepared. In it, Marty recounts the story of Mortiz v. Commissioner, the case he and Ruth argued before the Tench Circuit that challenged a tax law discriminating against unmarried men caring for dependent parents. The victory helped launch Justice Ginsburg’s pioneering litigation strategy advancing gender equality under the Constitution. The second part features highlights from a 2022 fireside interview with Chief Justice John Roberts. Speaking with Tenth Circuit Judges, Roberts reflects on the role of the Supreme Court, the importance of collegiality among the justices, and the challenges of maintaining public confidence in the Court during a period of intense scrutiny. Together, these conversations offer a rare window into the people, stories, and institutional traditions that shape the Supreme Court and the broader federal judiciary. Locally produced stories Tune in to 89.1 KHOL at 9 p.m. on Sundays for more episodes.